ATL to DTW Turbulence Forecast

Q: Is the Atlanta to Detroit flight turbulent?

The ATL–DTW route typically experiences light-moderate turbulence.

Q: Which seat is smoothest on ATL to DTW?

Wing seats are smoothest. On a Boeing 737, that's rows 15-22. Avoid the rear of the aircraft.

Q: How long is the flight from ATL to DTW?

The ATL to DTW flight takes approximately 2h 02m.

Is the Atlanta to Detroit flight turbulent? Live forecast & historical patterns.

Live forecast

ATL

→

DTW

Atlanta · Detroit · 2h 02m

5.2

Turb Score

2h 02m

Duration

594 nm

Distance

34,000 ft

Cruise Alt.

light-moderate

Typical

⚠️ light-moderate turbulence today

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Typical turbulence along the route

Historical average pattern for ATL–DTW

0h1h2h3h4h5h6h2h 02m

Smooth

Light

Moderate

Heavy

About the ATL–DTW route

The Atlanta to Detroit domestic route is generally one of the smoother flights in the US network, covering 683 miles at around 34,000 feet. Turbulence is most common when weather systems cross the Midwest or when the flight path skirts the Rocky Mountains. Short duration means any rough patches pass quickly.

The route is served by Delta on Boeing 737 · Airbus A319 aircraft, with flights typically cruising at 34,000 feet over a distance of 683 miles (594 nautical miles).

💡 Tip: Domestic routes are generally smoother. Mountain crossings are the main turbulence source.

Turbulence levels on ATL–DTW

What to expect at each phase of the flight

SmoothDeparture & arrival — climb and descent phases are generally calm

LightMinor bumps — drink stays in your cup, walking feels slightly unsteady

ModerateNoticeable bumps — stay seated with seatbelt on, service may pause

HeavyStrong jolts — unsecured items move, crew seated. Rare but possible

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Best time to fly ATL–DTW

Turbulence by month

Smooth

Light

Moderate

Rough

Best seat on ATL–DTW

Boeing 737

Front

Rows 1–14

Light

✓ Wing

Rows 15-22

Smoothest

Rear

Rows 23+

Rougher

Wing seats are over the center of gravity — least affected by turbulence.

What you'll see in the app

Full forecast, live map & seat recommendations

Similar routes

Other popular routes with turbulence data

Minneapolis → Atlanta

light-moderate

See all us domestic flights →

All ATL routes→ All DTW routes→

Frequently asked questions

Is the Atlanta to Detroit flight turbulent?

The ATL–DTW route typically experiences light-moderate turbulence. The turbulence score for this route is 5.2/100.

When is turbulence worst on ATL to DTW?

Domestic routes are generally smoother. Mountain crossings are the main turbulence source. Check the turbulence chart above for the typical pattern along this specific route.

Which seat is smoothest on ATL to DTW?

Wing seats are always the smoothest. On a Boeing 737 (the most common aircraft on this route), that's rows 15-22. Avoid the very rear of the aircraft — it amplifies turbulence motion.

How long is the flight from ATL to DTW?

The ATL to DTW flight takes approximately 2h 02m, covering 683 miles (594 nautical miles).

Which airlines fly ATL to DTW?

The main airlines operating this route are Delta, flying Boeing 737 · Airbus A319 aircraft.